Lan Pan-Asian Cafe

Yup, it's that same old cliché: a cute little café in a big ol' shopping mall. Or rather, in a big ol' parking garage. Located on the ground floor of Dadeland Station, next to a Romero Britto sculpture, Lan's pan-Asian fare is the perfect antidote to the surrounding chain stores. Items range from sushi to glazed spare ribs ($6.95), mushroom-crusted tuna ($18.95), and green papaya salad ($7.95). Although this restaurant has garnered many local fans, it can be inconsistent. For instance, the taro and crab croquettes are outstanding, but the chicken katsu isn't as good. Save space for Taiwanese bubble tea, which comes with tiny floating pearls of tapioca and is beloved by many loyal regulars. Flavors include jasmine, cherry green tea latte, kiwi, and almond. Great lunch specials are also available, but be forewarned: The place gets busy during weekday afternoons.